Casablanca

For the last four decades, this movie-themed restaurant inspired by Casablanca (1942) has kept Venice well-fed with generous portions of Mexican American cuisine. It’s also a no-reservations neighborhood institution beloved for live music on the weekends and bottomless chips and salsa. The signature grilled calamari steak is more than worth the hype, but you can't go wrong with the burrito wrapped in a housemade flour tortilla, the build-your-own taco situations or the platters of sizzling fajitas. The house margaritas, served from a roving drink cart, are legendary among locals for their quality and strength, while the cozy old-school ambience is a welcome antidote to all the glut of fast-casual chains and upscale newcomers in Venice’s dining scene. Expect a half hour wait or more for a table at primetime on weekend evenings.